Hi all,
I live in Israel and it's one of my goals to get a PPL, preferably in an intensive course in the USA. Partly for the experience, partly for the lower cost. Due to the timing of the Jewish holidays, I'm usually only able to take a good chunk of vacation time around September-October most years.
In September 2015, I prepared everything (there's a lot to think about and do) and went to Tailwheels, Etc in Lakeland FL. Everything would have been alright except that the thunderstorms and clouds stopped me flying anywhere near the required amount, even in the first few days, so I aborted and spent the rest of my time in Miami with friends. This was terribly disappointing, but with problems like that, life is alright.
I'd like to have another go. A friend is a private jet pilot, based in Phoenix AZ (by DVT), and he said that the weather in AZ is a lot better than FL. I have read about Westwind and Transpac and it doesn't look great. Any recent opinions on these?
Also, I'm open to other options for a school that is in an area with decent weather during October, prices, and a good attitude. If it's near a city with good nightlife, that's a bonus. Doesn't have to be AZ.
Note that as an international student, I need an SEVP-certified school, which limits my choice considerably. So if you're kind enough to read this and make recommendations, please make sure the recommendation is listed at https://studyinthestates.dhs.gov/school-search (choose Flight School from the Education type drop-down, and make sure M-1 visa is ticked).
I live in Israel and it's one of my goals to get a PPL, preferably in an intensive course in the USA. Partly for the experience, partly for the lower cost. Due to the timing of the Jewish holidays, I'm usually only able to take a good chunk of vacation time around September-October most years.
In September 2015, I prepared everything (there's a lot to think about and do) and went to Tailwheels, Etc in Lakeland FL. Everything would have been alright except that the thunderstorms and clouds stopped me flying anywhere near the required amount, even in the first few days, so I aborted and spent the rest of my time in Miami with friends. This was terribly disappointing, but with problems like that, life is alright.
I'd like to have another go. A friend is a private jet pilot, based in Phoenix AZ (by DVT), and he said that the weather in AZ is a lot better than FL. I have read about Westwind and Transpac and it doesn't look great. Any recent opinions on these?
Also, I'm open to other options for a school that is in an area with decent weather during October, prices, and a good attitude. If it's near a city with good nightlife, that's a bonus. Doesn't have to be AZ.
Note that as an international student, I need an SEVP-certified school, which limits my choice considerably. So if you're kind enough to read this and make recommendations, please make sure the recommendation is listed at https://studyinthestates.dhs.gov/school-search (choose Flight School from the Education type drop-down, and make sure M-1 visa is ticked).